Ethnobotanical Survey of Plants Used to Treat Diseases of the Reproductive

Full Length Research Paper

Ethnobotanical survey of plants used to treat diseases of the reproductive system and preliminary phytochemical screening of some species of malvaceae in Ndop Central Sub-division, Cameroon

Focho D. A.1, Nkeng E. A. P.2, Lucha C. F.1*, Ndam W, T.1 and Afegenui A.1

1Department of Plant Biology, University of Dschang, Cameroon. 2Department of Chemistry, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

Accepted 6 April, 2009

Ethnobotanical investigations and chemosystematic analyses of plants were carried out in Ndop Central Sub-division to identify medicinal plants that treat diseases of the reproductive system and to know the characteristic compounds in the family Malvaceae that have chemotaxonomic value. A total of 88 plant species belonging to 77 genera and 42 families were sampled treating about 24 different reproductive ailments. Their scientific names, vernacular names, parts used, modes of preparation and administration are presented. Chemical screening involved 8 species and 4 families. From the chemical analyses, alkaloids and phenolic compounds are characteristic compounds of the family Malvaceae indicating that they have chemotaxonomic value in the family. Ecdysterone and ajugasterone are not present in the plants tested, indicating that they are not the characteristic ecdysones in that family.

Key words: Ethnobotany, chemosystematics, malvaceae, medicinal plants, reproductive system, Ndop.

INTRODUCTION

The study area to 2000 m. The average altitude is 1200 m (Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MINEF), 1999). The climate Ndop Central Sub-division is found in Ngoketunjia Divi- comprises two distinct seasons: a dry season from mid- sion of the Northwest Region of the Republic of Came- November to mid-March and a rainy season which ex- roon (Figure 1A and B). It lies between latitudes 5°40 N tends from mid-March to mid-November. Annual rainfall and 7°N to the North of the equator, and between lon- is estimated at about 1600 mm (Nkouandou, 2005). The gitudes 9°45 E and 11°10 E. Ndop Central Sub-division mean annual temperature is about 30°C (Ministry of Envi- has a surface area of 410 km² (Statistical data, (Ndop ronment and Forestry (MINEF), 1999). The climate is Council, 2006). Ndop shares a common boundary to the subtropical with low temperatures. West with Sabga, to the North with Babungo, to the East The pristine vegetation is composed of two main types: with Baba I. The study area includes Ndop town and four the high altitude shrub savannah and swampy vegetation. villages: Bamunka, Bamali, Bambalang and Bamessing The high altitude shrub savannah is dominated by fire- (Figure1C), with a population of about 56,532. This popu- resistant species such as: Annona senegalensis, Termi- lation is made up of the Tikari tribe (Nkouandou, 2005). nalia lecardii, Schefflera abyssinica and Croton macro- The main activity of the people is agriculture that stachyus. This area is subject to intense non-sustainable includes animal rearing and fishing. The relief is charac- practices (grazing, bushfires, over-harvesting of firewood terized by the Ndop plain surrounded by numerous hills and medicinal plants). where rivers take their rise. The altitude varies from 300 The swampy vegetation is found on the plain and is dominated by Elaeis guineensis Jasq (oil palm), Raphia

hookeri G. Mann and H. Walt (raphia palm) and remnant economic species such as Piptadeniastrum africana, *Corresponding authors. [email protected]. Ceiba pentandra and Milicia excelsa. (Nkouandou, 2005).

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Table 1. Distribution of people interviewed in terms of villages.

Villages N° of TMPs N° of Herbalist N° of TBAs N° of Herb Sellers N° of Lay pop° Total Ndop 7 15 6 10 60 98 Bamunka 14 18 8 8 80 128 Bamali 3 5 5 3 30 46 Bamessing 4 10 8 4 40 66 Bambalang 6 9 9 5 45 74 Total 34 57 36 30 255 412 Percentage (%) 8.25 13.83 8.73 7.28 61.89 100

Maize is the main food crop. The main cash crop is rice ductive diseases in Ndop and conduct phytochemical which is cultivated on an industrial scale by the Upper screening for bioactive components of some species of Noun Valley Development Authority (UNVDA). the Malvaceae family. Information from ethnobotanical surveys and subse- quently phytochemical screening of plants have been METHODOLOGY used in the past and are currently being pursued espe- cially in developing countries as a means to initiate drug Ethnobotanical Survey discovery efforts (Farnsworth, 1966). According to medi- An ethnobotanical survey was carried out in Ndop Central Sub- cal records of the district hospital in Ndop Central Sub- division from 28th December, 2005 to 10th July, 2006. Interviews division, about 31,093 people (55% of the population) were conducted in the field during collection trips and by exami- suffer from diseases linked to the reproductive system. nation of freshly collected specimens with informants, after seeking In this rural community, childbirth is of great importance oral consent. Inquiries on the prevalence, types, mode of trans- and most ailments related to the reproductive system are mission and symptoms of reproductive ailments were made by treated traditionally using plants. However, the people orally interviewing doctors in government health centres in Ndop and some specialized healers. Local traditional healers, birth atten- that hold the indigenous knowledge on the uses of plants dants, herbalists, herb-sellers and aged persons having practical are the older generation and the traditional healers. The knowledge of the use of plants for health care were interviewed. younger generations have little interest in the practice Data on plant species, local name, part used, diseases treated, due to urbanization and technological advancement mode of preparation and administration of herbal medicine were (Focho et al., 2009). Hence, there is danger that this recorded following the standard questionnaire of the Scientific Technical and Research Commission (STRC) of the Organisation of knowledge will eventually disappear if nothing is done. African Unity-OAU (Adjanohoun et al., 1996). The informants Also, ethnobotanical surveys carried out in Cameroon by guided us to the field where we could see and collect specimens of Adjanohoun et al. (1996) reported only very few medici- the plant in question, in cases where they were not found around nal plants of Ndop Central sub-division. There is there- their homes. Standard methods were used in plant material collec- fore, need for an exhaustive documentation of the medici- tion, drying, mounting, preparation and preservation (Jain and Rao, nal plants of Ndop. 1976). Plants were identified first by their vernacular names and later Plant chemosystematics is the application of plant validated by Dr. Tchiengue Barthelemy, Mr Paul Mezili and Dr. Jean chemodata to the systematic problem (Judd et al., 1999). Michel Onana, botanists at the Cameroon National Herbarium It is rapidly expanding inter-disciplinary field concerned Yaounde (YA). Voucher specimens were deposited in the Univer- with using chemical constituents to explain relationships sity of Dschang Teaching Herbarium. A total of 412 persons were between plants and inferring phylogeny. The family of interviewed amongst which were 34 TMP, 57 herbalists, 36 TBA, 30 herb sellers and 255 lay population (Table 1). Malvaceae was chosen for the chemotaxonomic study because recent studies on alkaloids, ecdysones and phenolic compounds show that they are important com- Chemical Screening Methodology pounds for chemotaxonomic studies of some genera of Considering that identification of plants may sometimes be difficult the Malvaceae (Dinan et al., 2001; Karou et al., 2000; using only morphological characters, a chemotaxonomic study was Darwish and Reinecke, 2003; Ghosals et al., 1975). conducted in an attempt to solve such a problem. Four different genera containing eight different species Eight species, medicinal and non-medicinal in Ndop belonging to of this family were chosen for screening. Also from the four genera of the family Malvaceae were chosen for the chemical screening namely: Abelmoschus cailei (A.Chev) J.M.C Stevels, ecological point of view, the Malvaceae constitutes one of Hibiscus asper Hook.f, H. rosa-sinensis Linn, H. sabdariffa Linn, H. the most important angiosperm families (Cobley, 1962). It schizopetalus Hook.f, Malvaviscus arboreus Cav, Sida acuta Burm.f is cosmopolitan in distribution. This screening aims at and Sida rhombifolia Linn. helping taxonomists in their endeavour to arrive at a truly natural classification of the Malvaceae. Collection and preparation of the plant material The objectives of this study were to identify and docu- ment plants traditionally used for the treatment of repro- Fresh plant specimens were harvested and weighed using a capa-

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Table 2. Plant species, parts, weights of plant material, quantity of methanol used, the extract weights obtained and the percentage yields of the extracts of the plants.

Weight of Quantity of Extract % Yield of the S/No Plant Part plant (g) Methanol (ml) weight (g) extracts 1 Abelmoschus cailei (A.Chev) J.M.C Stevels. Leaves 50 550 3.74 7.48 Stem 50 600 5.45 10.9 2 Hibiscus asper Hook.f. Whole plant 50 650 14.74 29.48 3 Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Linn. Whole plant 50 600 13.81 27.62 4 Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn. Whole plant 50 650 5.16 10.32 5 Hibiscus schizopetalous Hook.f. Leaves 50 550 3.65 7.30 Stems 50 600 3.46 6.92 6 Malvaviscus arboreous Cav. Leaves 50 600 10.41 20.82 Stems 50 550 15.03 30.06 7 Sida acuta Burm.f. Whole plant 50 650 12.55 25.1 Leaves 50 600 8.53 17.06 8 Sida rhombifolia Linn. Stems 50 700 2.94 5.88

city weighing balance. They were cut into pieces and dried in an chromatogram was removed when the solvent attained the front, electric drier at 45°C - 55°C maximum, after which the dried plants dried using an electric hand-drier, then observed under ultra violet were reweighed. They were separated into their various parts to be (UV) light to visualise the spots and determine the presence or used and ground into uniform powder using a Gondard milling ma- absence of ecdysones in the extracts under investigation. chine (‘Broyeurs GONDARD Paris’ N°4106, France).

RESULTS Preparation of the plant extract Distribution of people interviewed 50 g of each dried powdered sample was macerated in about 600 ml of pure methanol-99% (Table 2) for 24 h, then filtered by vacuum Four hundred and twelve persons were interviewed filtration using a Pfeiffer vacuum filtration set (BUCHI RE.120, Swit- amongst which were 34 traditional healers, 57 herbalists, zerland). The methanol extracts were concentrated using a Rota- 36 traditional birth attendants, 30 herb sellers and 255 lay tory evaporator R.110 (at about 54°C). After concentration they were weighed using a Mettler P.1200N electric weighing balance population (Table 1). From the above table it is noted that and their weights recorded as shown on table 2 below. Bamunka village had the highest number of people who Chemical tests were carried out on the concentrated methanol participated during the inquiry. In all, 128 persons in this extracts using standard procedures as described by Sofowora village were interviewed. (1993), Trease and Evans (1989) and Harborne (1973). These tests The inquiry permitted the sampling of a total of 88 spe- were the tests for: Alkaloids, coumarines, flavonoides, hydroxyl of cies of plants belonging to 77 genera and 42 families. phenolic compounds (OH-Phenols), fatty acids or saponification oils, sterols and triterpenoids. The most represented family is the Asteraceae, with 16 Ecdysterone and ajugasterone c, were tested for in the stem species belonging to 14 genera, followed by the bark extracts from Sida rhombifolia, Malvaviscus arboreus, H. Euphorbiaceae with 5 species belonging to 4 genera, schizopetalus and A. cailei, using flash column chromatography or closely followed by the families Lamiaceae and Malva- dry flash chromatography followed by TLC analysis (Trease and ceae each having 4 species. Evans, 1989) with the aim of identifying the presence of ecdysones using authentic ecdysterone and ajugasterone c samples as The leaves or entire plants were mostly used for herba- references. The method of chromatographic analysis consisted of ceous plants. Stem bark for trees, Buds, flowers, seeds, setting up a column of 4.2 cm diameter and 5.5 cm height with a fruits, bulbs, roots and tubers were also used as medi- Pfeiffer vacuum filtration set. 2.5 g of each of the plant extracts was cine. Plant products like palm oil, kernel oil, castor oil, dissolved separately in methanol and 5 g of celite was added to fix palm and raphia wine were also used for most of the pre- each of them. 45 g of pure silica was mixed with methylene chloride parations. and introduced on top of the column chromatography set and the extract fixed on celite was introduced on top of the silica gel 24 different types of reproductive related complications column. were encountered. The most mentioned diseases treated The column was run successively with the system of the fol- in decreasing order of magnitude were female sterility, lowing solvents: CH2Cl2-MeOH (95:5); CH2Cl2-MeOH (85:15); male sterility, dysmenorrhoea, gonorrhoea, syphilis, CH2Cl2-MeOH (80:20) and MeOH-H2O (80:20). Fractions of 15 ml impotence and candidiasis. The different modes of prepa- were collected and evaporated in a 100 ml flat bottom flask. These ration of medicine employed include concoctions, decoc- concentrated extracts permitted TLC analysis to be conducted with the ecdysone references. tions and macerations. Dry plates were separately migrated in the CH2Cl2-MeOH- Acanthus montanus had the highest frequency as it Acetone (7:2:1) solvent system in a covered 250 ml beaker. The was recommended by many people as an ingredient in

304 J. Med. Plant. Res.

the concoctions for the treatment of female sterility, in the body. followed by Cissus quadranqularis to treat impotence and Some of the plants may be considered to be endan- oligospermia. It was observed that some plants are active gered because of over exploitation. For example, A. mon- against many diseases while some cure only a disease. tanus, V. guinensis, Leonotis nepetifolia, Aloe buetneri, These plants were either used in a mixture or singly for S. urens, Entada africana, Mondia whiter, E. senega- the treatments. Table 3 shows the plants surveyed in the lensis and C.quadrangularis. present study. The majority of plants used as medicine in the study area were herbs, with the family Asteraceae topping the list. This may be because the study area is in the shrub Results from chemical tests savannah, which favours the growth of various herbs.

It was noticed that the alkaloids, phenols, essential or Also the Asteraceae is one of the most represented plant volatile oils, fatty acids, sterols and triterpenoids were family. present in all the Malvaceae tested. The coumarines and Leaves were the most popular plant part used in the flavonoids were not present in all the Malvaceae (Table various herbal preparations followed by the bark and the 4). The search for ecdysones, ecdysterone and ajuga- whole plant for herbs while oil, seeds, stems and tubers sterone c in the stems extracts of S. rhombifolia, M. arbo- were the least used parts. Leaves are known to accu- reous, H. schizopetalous and A. cailei. No presence of mulate alkaloids, tannins and inulins which are the active ecdysones, ecdysterone and ajugasterone. components of most herbal preparations (Okoegwale and Omefezi, 2001; Focho et al., 2009). This variation in the part used could be explained by the process of photo- DISCUSSION synthesis. Mostly the secondary metabolites of plants convey to them, their medicinal properties (Husain, Out of the eighty-eight plant species sampled to treat dis- 1988). eases linked to the reproductive system in Ndop Central Thus, during photosynthesis there is synthesis of pri- Sub-division, thirty-two of them have been reported to mary metabolites that are converted to secondary meta- treat ailments of the reproductive system in Cameroon. bolites and stored in different parts of the plants. Some Some of these plants are A. montanus, Centella asiatica, traditional healers are knowledgeable of this and usually C. quadrangularis, Emilia coccinea, H. asper and Leea precise the period of collection of certain medicines. guineensis. Twenty-five of the eighty-eight plants have The main methods of preparation of remedies were also been reported to treat other diseases in Cameroon. concoctions, decoctions and macerations while the mode These include Sanseviera liberica, Mangifera indica, of administration was mostly oral. According to Igoli et al. Eryngium foetidium, Colocasia esculenta, Ageratum (2005), the joint use of multiple medicinal plants in con- conyzoides, Chromolaena odorata, Spilanthes filicaulis, coctions could be due to synergistic or additive effects of and Spathodea campanulata. constituents. Most of the plant species were multipurpose The remaining thirty-one have not been cited in the medicinal plants used in the treatment of several repro- Cameroon pharmacopoeia by Adjanohoun et al. (1996). duction related diseases. For example, C. quadragularis These include, Pseudospondias microcarpa, Xantho- was used to treat oligospermia, impotence, poor ejacu- soma sagittifolium, Cocos nucifera, Ambrosia maritima, lation, low sperm count, pelvic inflammatory disease, Microglossa angolensis, Mikania scandens, Vernonia spurious labour pains and post partum haemorrhage. ambigua, Cyathea manni, Clerodendrum scandens, S. We deduced from the results of chemical screening urens and Erythrina senegalensis. The results of these that the alkaloids and phenols which are characteristic findings are therefore a contribution to the completion of compounds used in chemosystematics were present in the work of Adjanohoun et al. (1996). Some of these all the eight species of the family Malvaceae tested. plants are also known to treat diseases of the reproduc- Coumarines and flavonoids are also important classes of tive system in other parts of Africa (Ayensu, 1978; Bep, compounds used in chemotaxonomy but they are not 1986; Iwu, 1993; Megne, 1998; Focho et al., 2009). present in all the plants tested. They are not important These may be proof of their efficacy. classes of compounds to be used in chemotaxonomic Others are known in some parts of Africa to treat dif- studies of the Malvaceae. ferent ailments (Iwu, 1993; Ayensu, 1978; Adjanohoun et Fatty acids, sterols and triterpenoids were present in all al., 1988). The diversity observed in the usage of these the plants tested but they are not important compounds plants can be appropriately explained in the ecological used in chemosystematics since they are present in all variations observed in the different regions. As signalled angiosperms. by Bep (1986), this may be attributed to differences in Phytoecdysteroids, for example ecdysones, have che- climate, soil or other ecological conditions. In effect, the motaxonomic value in the genus Sida because of their climatic and edaphic conditions can influence the che- presence in the seeds of S. acuta, S. rhombifolia and S. mical composition of these plants. The different uses can filicaulis (Dinan et al., 2001). The ecdysteroids also present also be explained by the fact that, a single plant can con- in aerial parts of S. spinosa L. (Darwish and Reinecke, tain many compounds which perform different functions 2003) were absent in the Malvaceae analysed and so are

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Table 3. Medicinal plants, parts used, diseases treated, mode of preparation and frequency of citation of remedy.

No Species and Family Vernacular / Part Diseases treated Mode of preparation and Freq Common name Used administration 1 Acanthus montanus Kehboh Leaves Female infertility (pelvic Concoction with whole plant of 87 (Nees) (Bamunka) inflammatory disease) E uphobia hirta, leaves of Aloe T. Anders Kemedie Dysmenorrhoea Post buettneri, bark of Leea guineensis (Acnthaceae) (Voucher: (Bambalang) partum pains and seeds of Aframomum Lucha016) Gonorrhoea melegueta is taken orally Concoction with leaves of Threatened abortion Sanseviera liberica and bulbs of Crimum zeylanicum and raphia wine is taken orally. 2 Aframomum danielli K. KenchouChukeh( Roots Gonorrhoea Decoction is taken orally. 7 Schum Bamunka) Syphilis Candidiasis (Zingeberaceae) Infertility (low sperm (Voucher : Lucha051) count, poor ejaculation, pelvic inflammatory disease) 3 Aframomum Alagata pepper Seeds Male / female infertility Concoction with whole plant of 65 melegueta K. Schum Soh(Bamunka (poor erection, poor Euphobia hirta, leaves of Aloe (Voucher: Lucha012) ejaculation, pelvic buettneri and Acanthus montanus , inflammatory disease), bark of Leea guineensis and seeds Dysmenorrhoea of Aframomum meleguetais taken orally Threatened abortion

4 Ageratum conyzoides Goat weed Leaves Dysmenorrhoea Chew fresh leaves. 12 Linn (Asteraceae) King grass Stems (Voucher : Lucha020) 5 Alchornea cordifolia Biehbieh Leaves Vaginal candidiasis Infusion is taken orally. 5 (Schum & Thonn ) (Bambalang) Mull. Arg (Euporbiaceae) (Voucher : Lucha050) 6 Alchornea laxiflora Pax Mechango Leaves Post partum pain Decoction is taken orally 4 & K. Hoftm. (Bambalang) (Euporbiaceae) (Voucher: Lucha072) 7 Ambrosia maritima Beuchekeh Leaves Female infertility (pelvic Concoction with fresh leaves of 18 Linn (Asteraceae) (Bamunka) inflammatory disease) Centella asiatica and leaves of (Voucher: Lucha053) Ambrosia maritime is taken orally. 8 Aloe barbadensis Linn Bajojoh Leaves Dysmenorrhoea Maceration is taken orally. 40 (Liliaceae) (Bamunka) Female infertility (pelvic (Voucher : Lucha021) Aloe vera inflammatory disease) 9 Aloe buettneri. A Berger Wild aloe vera Leaves Female infertility (pelvic Concoction with leaves of Acanthus 7 & Engl (Liliaceae) inflammatory disease) montanus, leaves of Euphobia hirta, (Voucher : Lucha028) Dysmenorrhoea leaves of Aloe buettneri, bark of Post partum pains Leea uineensis and seeds of Aframomum melegueta is taken Chronic gonorrhoea orally 10 Aspilia fricana (Pers) Chikeh Leaves Gonorrhoea Maceration is taken orally. 4 C.D Adams (Bamunka) Buds (Asteraceae) Iodine grass 11 Basella alba Linn Lobekwebefon Whole Infertility (pelvic Maceration is taken orally. 47 (Basellaceae) (Bamunka) plant inflammatory disease, (Voucher: Lucha080) Twin grass orchitis, epididymytis) Threatened abortion Spurious labour

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Table 3. Contd

12 Bidens pilosa Linn Kiyanuh Whole Acute mastitis Concoction with barks of 6 (Asteraceae) (Bamunka) plant Post partum Tabernaemontana c.f ventricosa and (Voucher: Lucha030) haemorrhage limestone is taken orally. Male /female infertility (pelvic inflammatory disease, poor erection, poor ejaculation) Impotence 13 Bryophyllum pinatum Atunlabieh Leaves Lactation failure Juice is taken orally. 17 (Lam.). Oken (Bamessing) (Crassulaceae) Wander of the (Voucher: Lucha049) world 14 Capsicum frutescens Small red Fruit Gonorrhoea Concoction with fresh leaves of Sida Linn (Solanaceae) pepperGwocoffi(B veronicifolia is taken orally. (Voucher: Lucha032) amunka) 15 Carica papaya Linn Pawpaw Leaves Gonorrhoea Maceration with limestone is taken 13 (Caricaceae) orally. (Voucher: Lucha042) 16 Centella asiatica (Linn.) Whole Female infertility (pelvic Concoction with leaves of Ambrosia 5 Urb (Apiaceae) plant inflammatory disease) maritime is taken orally. (Voucher: Lucha031) 17 Chromolaena odorata Mbiah (Bamunka) Leaves Urithritis Maceration in raphia wine is taken 14 (L) R.M King & Gonorrhoea orally. Robinson (Asteraceae) (Voucher: Lucha025) 18 Cissus quadrangularis Bekteh Whole Oligospermia Maceration in raphia palm wine is 70 Linn (Bamunka)Jinpuh plant Impotence taken orally. (Vitaceae) (Bamali) Male / female infertility (Voucher: Lucha071) Michereh (poor erection, low (Bambalang)Four sperm count, pelvic corners inflammatory disease) Spurious labour Post partum haemorrhage 19 Citrus aurantifolia Lime Fruit Post partum Maceration is taken orally. (Christm.) Swengle prophylaxis (Rutaceae) Male / female infertility (Voucher: Lucha014) (poor ejaculation, preorgasm ejaculation) Gonorrhoea Syphilis Vaginal candidiasis Dysmenorrhoea 20 Citrus sinensis (L). Obs Lamachi Roots Impotence Concoction with roots of Vernonia 5 (Rutaceae) (Bamessing)Swee amygdalina and roots of Psidium (Voucher: Lucha022) t orange guajava is taken orally. 21 Clerodendrum Kogseh Leaves Dysmenorrhoea Maceration is taken orally. 48 scandens P. Beauv (Bamunka) (Lamiaceae) (Voucher: Lucha057) 22 Cocos nucifera Linn - Vechoukeh Fruit Difficult lactation Maceration is taken orally. 7 (Arecaceae) (Bamunka) (Voucher: Lucha005) - Coconut

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Table 3. Contd

23 Cola nitida Schott and Small red Fruit Gonorrhoea Concoction with young shoots of Aspilia 4 Bandl (Stercliaceae) colanuts Male / female infertility africana is taken orally. (Voucher: Lucha039) Beh (pelvic inflammatory (Bamunka) disease, preorgasm ejaculation, orchitis) 24 Colocasia esculenta (L) Achu – coco Leaves Painful breasts Maceration is taken orally. 3 Schott (Araceae) Kebeh(Bamunka) (Voucher: Lucha027) 25 Commelina Yiukeh Leaves Menorrhagia Fresh juice is taken orally. 7 benghalensis Linn (Bamunka) Infertility (pelvic (Commelinaceae) inflammatory disease) (Voucher: Lucha006) 26 Costus afer Ker-Gawl Chuichumba Roots Threatened abortion Decoction is taken orally. 14 (Costaceae) (Bamunka) (Voucher: Lucha084) Monkey sugar cane 27 Crassocephalum Borjusehkon Whole Male / female infertility Concoction with Emilia coccine, Sida 9 biafrae. S. Moore. (Bamali) plant (poor erection, poor veronicifolia, and Vernonia ambigua is (Asteraceae) ejaculation, pelvic taken orally. (Voucher: Lucha041) inflammatory disease) 28 Crinum c.f jagus Kulong (Bamali) Bulbs Dysmenorrhoea Maceration of leaves and bulbs is taken 12 (Thomps). Dandy. Threatened abortion orally. (Amaryllidaceae) (Voucher: Lucha040) 29 Crinum zeylanicum Anoshukunu Bulbs Threatened abortion Concoction with leaves of Acanthus 6 (L).L (Amaryllidaceae) (Bambalang) montanus and leaves of Sanseveira (Voucher: Lucha010) Bush onions liberica and raphia wine is taken orally. 30 Cupressus benthamii Cypress Leaves Dysmenorrhoea Decoction is taken orally. 5 Var. Lucitanica Bark (Cuppessaceae) (Voucher: Lucha002) 31 Cyathea manni Hook Tekah (Bamunka) Bark Oligospermia Maceration in palm wine is taken orally. 8 (Cyatheaceae) Fern tree Impotence (Voucher: Lucha045) 32 Cymbopogon citratus Fever grass Leaves Post partum pains Concoction with bark of Erythrina 3 (D.C) Stapf Foshokou senegalensis is taken orally. (Gramineae) (Bambalang) (Voucher: Lucha076) 33 Dichrocephala Funfonfeh Whole Gonorrhoea Concoction of pulverized whole plant 5 integrifolia (Linn. F) O. (Bamali) plant with fresh leaves of Carica papaya is Ktze. (Asteraceae) taken orally. (Voucher: Lucha074) 34 Dychoriste perrotteti Buohoh Leaves Female infertility (pelvic Decoction is taken orally. 25 (Nees) O. Ktze (Bamunka) inflammatory disease) Acanthaceae (Voucher: Lucha024) 35 Elaeis guinensis Jacq Palm tree Sap Post partum Decoction is taken orally. 42 (Arecaceae) Teh (Bamunka) prophylaxis (Voucher: Lucha007) Difficult lactation 36 Elephantopus mollis god tobacco Leaves Gonorrhoea Pulverized leaves with salt and red oil 4 H.B & K (Asteraceae) Lapa- fundie are taken orally. (Voucher: Lucha065) (Bambalang) 37 Emilia coccinea (Sims) Yeyiukeh (Bamali) Whole Male / female infertility Concoction with Crassocephalum 6 G. Don (Asteraceae) plant (preorgasm ejaculation, biafrae, Emilia coccinea, Sida (Voucher: Lucha061) pelvic inflammatory veronicifolia and Vernonia ambigua in disease) raphia wine is taken orally.

308 J. Med. Plant. Res.

Table 3. Contd

38 Entada africana Guill & - Tchikwohkeh Bark Gonorrhoea Concoction with roots of Aframomum 32 Perr (Mimosaceae) (Bamunka) Syphilis danielli is taken orally. (Voucher: Lucha052) Vaginal candidiasis Female infertility (pelvic inflammatory disease) 39 Eragrostis atrovirens Yeikehneh Leaves Analgesic during Pulverized inflorescence is applied 3 (Desf) Steud (Bamunka) labour topically on the breast. (Gramineae) (Voucher: Lucha056) 40 Eremomastrax Keon (Bamunka) Leaves Menorrhagia Juice is taken orally. 45 speciosa (Hochst) Banjime Dysmenorrhoea Male / Concoction with leaves of Vernonia Cufod. (Acanthaceae) (Bamessing) female infertility (pelvic ambigua is (Voucher: Lucha003) Jiban (Bamali) inflammatory disease, taken orally. Konteh orchitis, epididymitis) (Bambalang) 41 Eryngium foetidum Linn Fukwokoh Whole Acute mastitis Decoction is taken orally. 9 (Apiaceae) (Bamunka) plant Post partum Concoction with fresh plant of (Voucher: Lucha078) haemorrhage Bidens pilosa and fresh leaves of Isodon ramossissimus is taken orally. Threatened abortion Concoction with stem of Rhipsalis cassytha is taken orally. 42 Erythrina senegalensis Fongmeunchowa Bark Post partum pains Decoction is taken orally. D.C (Fabaceae) (Bamessing) (Voucher : Lucha088) 43 Euphorbia hirta Linn Ndoyi (Bamunka) Leaf Analgesic during Concoction with leaves of Acanthus 9 (Euporbiaceae) twigs labour montanus, leaves of Aloe buettneri, (Voucher: Lucha037) Female infertility (pelvic bark of Leea guineensis and seeds inflammatory disease) of Aframomum melegueta is taken orally 44 Ficus benghalensis Fick Bark, Syphilis Concoction with barks of Persea 3 Vahl (Moraceae) treeKunekeh(Bam leaf mericana, Mangifera indica and (Voucher: Lucha043) unka) fresh leaves of Psidium guajava is taken orally. 45 Ficus exasperata Vahl Gweh Buds, Infertility (pelvic Decoction with raphia wine is taken 7 (Moraceae) (Voucher: (Bambalang) bark inflammatory disease) orally. Lucha029) Yonteikeh Post partum (Bamunka) haemorrhage Sand leaf Analgesic during labour 46 Harungana Bonechi Buds Post partum pain Pulverized buds with salt and red oil 6 madagascariensis. Lam (Bamunka) are taken orally. (Hypericaceae) (Voucher : Lucha059) 47 Hibiscus asper Hook. F. Wihneh Leaves Gonorrhoea Maceration is taken orally. 18 (Malvaceae) (Bamessing) Dysmenorrhoea (Voucher: Lucha034) Male /female infertility (pelvic inflammatory disease) 48 Impatiens burtonii Mesotutuh Leaves Spurious labour Fresh juice is taken orally. 42 Hook. F (Bamunka) Stems (Balsaminaceae) (Voucher : Lucha087)

Focho et al. 309

Table 3. Contd

49 Isodon ramosissimus Jijeh (Bamunka) Leaves Acute mastitis Concoction with fresh plant of 5 (Hook. f) Codd Post partum Bidens pilosa and Eryngium (Lamiaceae) haemorrhage foetidium is taken orally. (Voucher: Lucha083) 50 Jatropha curcas Linn Bark Placenta retention Decoction is taken orally. 4 (Euporbiaceae) Roots Infertility (pelvic (Voucher: Lucha062) inflammatory) 51 Kigelia africana Benth Kokgehtei Fruit Male / female infertility Concoction with Leonotis nepetifolia 31 (Bignoniaceae) (Bamunka) (pelvic inflammatory and inflorescenxce of Musa (Voucher: Lucha047) disease, poor erection) sapientum in raphia wine is taken Prostatitis orally. Chronic cystic mastitis 52 Leea guineensis G. Bark Female / male infertility Concoction with leaves of Euphorbia 87 Don. (Leeaceae) (pelvic inflammatory hirta, leaves of Aloe buettneri and (Voucher: Lucha079) disease, poor seeds of Aframomum melegueta is ejaculation) taken orally. 53 Leonotis nepetifolia Koklehteifengei Whole Female infertility (pelvic Concoction with fruit of kigelia 41 (Linn) Ait.f. (Lamiaceae) (Bamunka) plant; inflammatory disease) africana and inflorescence of Musa (Voucher: Lucha077) Flower Painful breast sapientum is taken orally. 54 Mangifera indica L Mango Bark Syphilis Concoction with barks of Persea 3 Anacardiaceae americana, Ficus benghalensis and (Voucher: Lucha019 fresh leaves of Psidium guajava is taken orally. 55 Markhamia tomentosa Puing Bark Male / female infertility Decoction is taken orally. 19 (Ben.) K. Sch. Ex. Engl (Bambalang) (pelvic inflammatory (Bignoniaceae) disease, preorgasm) (Voucher: Lucha068) 56 Microglossa angolensis Sukwoh Leaves Vaginal candidiasis Fried leaves with castor oil are taken 13 Oliv & Hiern (Bamunka) Trichomoniasis orally before meals. (Asteraceae) (Voucher: Lucha086) 57 Mikania scandens Willd Valeucheche Leaves Analgesic during labour Infusion is taken orally. 32 (Asteraceae) (Bamunka) (Voucher: Lucha082) 58 Mondia whitei Skeels Cutingeukeh Roots Oligospermia Roots are chewed. (Periplocaceae) (Bamunka) Male infertility (poor Infusion of pulverized roots is taken (Voucher: Lucha066) ejaculation, preorgasm orally. ejaculation) Impotence 59 Musa paradisiaca Plantain Leaves Acute mastitis Juice from warm leaves and those of 30 Walker and Sillans. Yeikeh Ficus exasperata is applied topically. (Moraceae) (Bamunka) (Voucher: Lucha044) 60 Musa sapientum Linn Banana Flower Prostatitis Concoction with whole of Leontis 15 (Moraceae) Kwilei Chronic cystic mastitis nepetifolia taken orally. (Voucher: Lucha023) (Bamunka) Syphilis 61 Oxalis corniculata Linn Seineh Whole Gonorrhoea Maceration with leaves of Sida acuta 14 (Oxalidaceae) (Bamunka) plant is taken orally. (Voucher: Lucha035) 62 Paullinia pinnata Keiong LeavesB Syphilis Concoction with inflorescence of Linn (Sapindaceae) (Bamunka) ark Musa sapienta is taken orally. (Voucher: Lucha018) 63 Persea americana. Pear Bark Syphilis Concoction with barks of Mangifera 3 Miller (Lauraceae) Bier (Bambalang) indica, Ficus benghalensis and (Voucher: Lucha069) fresh leaves of Psidium guajava is taken orally.

310 J. Med. Plant. Res.

Table 3. Contd

64 Plectranthus c.f Fenky (Bamunka) Leaves Dysmenorrhoea Maceration is taken orally. 4 glandulosus Hook. F Lilui (Bamessing) Female infertility (Lamiaceae) (Voucher: Lucha081) 65 Psidium guajava Linn Megueba(Bamunk Roots Impotence Concoction with roots of Citrus 3 (Myrtaceae) a) Guava sinensis and roots of Vernonia (Voucher: Lucha046) amygdalina ais taken orally. 66 Pseudospondias Wuoh (Bamunka) Bark Female infertility (pelvic Decoction with honey is taken orally. 14 microcarpa Engl inflammatory disease) (Anacadiaceae) (Voucher: Lucha064) 67 Pteridium aquilinum Shesheh Buds Male infertility (poor Decoction is taken orally. 3 (Linn). Kohn. (Bambalang) erection, low sperm (Dennstaedteaceae) Fern herb count) (Voucher: Lucha058) 68 Raphia hookeri G. Raphia Sap Male and female Maceration is taken orally. 60 Mann and H. Walt Kuh (Bamunka) infertility (pelvic (Arecaceae) inflammatory disease, (Voucher: Lucha008) low sperm count, urethritis) 69 Rhipsalis cassytha Kurbeh Stem Threatened abortion Decoction is taken orally. 5 Gaerth (Cactaceae) (Bamessing) (Voucher: Lucha017) 70 Ricinus communis Linn Castor plant Castor Vaginal candidiasis Used as oil to fry leaves and stem 9 (Euporbiaceae) oil Trichomoniais barks of Microglossa angolensis and (Voucher: Lucha073) taken orally. 71 Sanseviera liberica Tohnekeh Leaves Threatened abortion Decoction is taken orally. 8 Hort.ex. (Bamunka) Liee Concoction with leaves of Acanthus Gerome & Labroy. (Bambalang) montanus and bulbs of Crimum (Agavaceae) (Voucher: zeylanicum and raphia wine is taken Lucha026) orally. 72 Senna alata (Linn). Leaves Female infertility (pelvic Infusion is taken orally. 6 Roxb (Caesalpinaceae) inflammatory disease) (Voucher: Lucha009) 73 Sida acuta Burm. F. Sheineh Leaves Analgesic during labour Juice is taken orally. Maceration with 42 (Malvaceae) (Bamunka) Gonorrhoea leaves of Oxalis corniculata is taken (Voucher: Lucha001) orally. 74 Sida urens Linn Chochin Leaves Threatened abortion Maceration is taken orally. 8 (Malvaceae) (Bamunka) Analgesia during (Voucher: Lucha067) labour 75 Sida veronicifolia Lam Longbah Whole Analgesia during Concoction with Crassocephalum 14 (Malvaceae) (Bamunka) plant labour biafrae, Emilia coccinea, and (Voucher: Lucha036) Dysmenorrhoea Vernonia ambigua in raphia wine is Male infertility (poor taken orally. erection) Gonorrhoea Post partum pain 76 Solanum aculeastrum Leikeh (Bamunka) Fruit Female infertility (pelvic Decoction is used as anal wash. 3 var. albifolium inflammatory disease) (Solanaceae) (Voucher: Lucha070) 77 Sonchus exauriculata Ngenkeyih Leaves Acute mastitis Juice from warm leaves is applied 7 O. Hoftm (Bamunka) topically. Asteraceae Feutia (Voucher: Lucha054) (Bamessing

Focho et al. 311

Table 3. Contd

78 Sorghum bicolar (Linn). Guinea corn Flower Painful breast Chronic Pulverized leaves are used to 32 Moench (Gramineae) Suyih (Bamunka) cystic mastitis massage the breast. (Voucher: Lucha075) 79 Spilanthes filicaulis Knuwnih Leaves Impotence Maceration in palm wine is taken 12 (Schum & Thonn) C.D. (Bamunka) orally. Adams (Asteraceae) Bamogo (Bamali) (Voucher: Lucha038) Eeye for fowl 80 Spathodea Kijejih (Bamunka); Bark Male / female infertility Decoction is taken orally. campanulata P. Beauv Mefuolofuoloh (pelvic inflammatory 12 (Bignoniaceae) (Bamessing) disease, poor erection) (Voucher: Lucha055) Post partum pain Ascended testes 81 Sterculia tragacantha Kukukeh Bark Male / female infertility Decoction is taken orally. 16 Lindl (Sterculiaceae) (Bamunka) (preorgasm ejaculation, (Voucher: Lucha033) orchitis) Dysmenorrhoea 82 Tabernaemontana c.f Teuneh Bark Male / Female infertility Concoction with whole plant of 20 ventricosa Hochst.ex. (Bamunka) (Urethritis, Orchitis) Bidens pilosa and limestone is taken A.D.C (Apocynaceae) Impotence orally. (Voucher: Lucha063) 83 Triumfetta cordifolia A. Kuhgunuh Leaves Vaginal candidiasis Concoction with bark of Persea 5 Rich (Tiliaceae) (Bambalang) Americana, Ficus benghalensis and (Voucher: Lucha071) fresh leaves of Psidium guajava is taken orally.ken orally. 84 Vernonia ambigua Venegegihkeh Male / female infertility Concoction with Crassocephalum 30 Kotschy & Peyr (Bamunka); (pelvic inflammatory biafrae, Emilia coccinea, and (Asteraceae) Shufeng disease, low sperm Vernonia ambigua in raphia wine is (Bambalang) count) Gonorrhoea taken orally. (Voucher: Lucha048) Impotence Post partum Leaves pains Dysmenorrhoea 85 Vernonia amygdalina Yiekeh Roots Impotence Concoction with roots of Citrus 3 Del (Asteraceae) (Bamessing) sinensis and roots of Psidium (Voucher: Lucha011) Bitter leaf guajava is taken orally. 86 Vernonia guineensis Kerkun (Bamali) Roots Syphilis Maceration with lime is taken orally. 15 Benth (Asteraceae) Gonorrhoea (Voucher: Lucha015) Male and Male / female Infertility (pelvic inflammatory disease, orchitis, epididymytis) Dysmenorrhoea 87 Xanthosoma Red macabo Tubers Female infertility (pelvic Pulverized tubers are mixed with 3 sagittaefolium Schott inflammatory disease) water and limestone, exposed in (Araceae) sunlight for 4 hours is taken orally. (Voucher: Lucha004) 88 Zehneria scabra (L.f). Valeih (Bamunka) Leaves Threatened abortion Maceration is taken orally. 13 Sond (Cucurbitaceae) (Voucher: Lucha085)

not the characteristic ecdysones in this family. Amongst these plants, thirty-two have been reported to

treat diseases linked with the reproductive system in Conclusion Ndop Central Sub-division of Cameroon. Some of them have also been reported to treat diseases of the repro- Eighty-eight plant species were sampled belonging to ductive system in other parts of Africa. Ndop Central Sub- seventy-seven genera and fourty-two plant families. division shares the same medicinal plants knowledge

312 J. Med. Plant. Res.

Figure 1. Geographical location of study area. A: Northwest Region of Cameroon. B: Ndop Central Sub-division in Ngoketunjia Division. C: Ndop Central Sub-Division Lay-out. Source: Adapted from the map of the Northwest Region. MINUH, Bamenda.

Focho et al. 313

Table 4. Results of chemical tests.

Fatty S/No Plants Part used Alkaloids Phenols Flavonoids Coumarines Sterols Triterpenoids acids 1 Abelmoschus Leaves + + - + + + + cailei (A.Chev) Stem + + - + + + + J.M.C. Stevels 2 Hibiscus asper Whole plant + + - - + + + Hook. f 3 Hibiscus rosa- Whole plant + + + - + + + sinensis Linn 4 Hibiscus Whole plant + + + - + + + sabdariffa Linn 5 Hibiscus Leaves + + - - + + + schizopetalous Stems + + - + + + + Hook.f 6 Malvaviscus Leaves + + + - + + + arboreous Cav Stems + + - + + + + 7 Sida acuta Burm.f Whole plant + + - + + + + 8 Sida rhombifolia Leaves + + - - + + + Linn Stems + + - + + + +

(+ Present; -Absent).

with other parts of Cameroon and Africa. Thisis a Wirmum CK (1996). Traditional medicine and Pharmacopoeia. validation of the knowledge of Ndop Central Sub-divi-sion Contribution to Ethnobotanical and Floristic Studies in Cameroon. OAU /STRC Lagos Nigeria. Pp. 422-491. traditional healers to their counterparts in other parts of Ayensu ES (1978). Medicinal plants of West Africa. Reference Cameroon. publications Inc, U.S.A. pp. 129-174. The presence of alkaloids and phenolic compounds in Bep OB (1986). Medicinal plants of Tropical West Africa. Cambridge the eight plant species belonging to four genera of the University Press. London. pp 215-239. Bhattarai NK (1992). Folk medicinal use of plants for respiratory family Malvaceae can be of help in the chemosystematics complaints in Central Nepal. Fitoterapia. LXIV (2): 163-173. of the family, if the types of compounds are known. Cobley LS (1962). An introduction to Botany of tropical Crops. Absence of ecdysones indicates that they are not the Longman-London. pp. 134-147. characteristic compounds in the family. Darwish FM, Reinecke MG (2003). Ecdysteroids and Other constituents from Sida spinosa L. Phytochemistry 62(8): 1179-1184.

Dinan L, Bourne P,Whiting P (2001). Phytoecdysteroid Profiles in Seeds

of Sida spp, (Malvaceae). Phytochem. Anal. 12 (2): 110-119. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Focho DA., Ndam TW, Fonge BA. (2009). Medicinal plants of Aguambu-Bamumbu in the lebialem highlands, southwest province of The authors appreciate the collaboration of the traditional Cameroon.Afr. J. Pharm. Pharmacol. 3(1): 001-013. medical practitioners and other villagers of Ndop Central Ghosals, Chauhan RB, Mehta R (1975). Alkaloids of Sida cordifolia. Sub-division as well as Dr. Tchiengue Barthelemy, Dr. Phytochemistry 14(3): 830-832. Harborne JB (1973). Phytochemical methods, London Chapman and Onana Jean Michel and Mr. Paul Mezili of the Cameroon Hall, Ltd. pp. 49 – 74. National Herbarium for validating plant identifications. We Husain A (1988). Economic importance of exploitation of medicinal are also grateful to the Alango Foundation for providing plants in the conservation of medicinal plants. Processing of an facilities for the chemical analyses. international consultation 21-27. March 1988, held at Chaing Mai Thailand Akerele O., Heywood V, and Synge, H. Cambridge University Press UK. pp. 1-15. Igoli JO, Ogali OG, Tor-Anyiin TA., Igoli NP (2005). Traditional medicine REFERENCES practice amongst the Igede people of Nigeria. Part II. Afr. J. Trad. CAM. 2(2): 134-152. Adjanohoun JE , Ahyi AMR, Assi Aké L , Baniakina J, Chibon P, Cusset Iwu MM (1993). Handbook of African medicinal Plants C.R.C Press G, Doulou V, Enzanza A, Eymè JE, Goudoté EN Keita A, Mbemba C, Boca Raton. Ann. Arbor Florida U.S.A. pp. 215-235. Mollet J, Moutsamboté JM, Mpati J, Sita P (1988). Mèdecine Jain SK, Rao RR (1976). A handbook of field and herbarium methods. traditionnelle et pharmacopée. Contribution aux études Today and tomorrow printers and publishers. New Delhei. pp. 1-32 ethnobotaniques et floristiques en République Populaire du Congo. Judd WS, Campbell CS, Kellogg EA, Stevens PF (1999). Plant Agence de Coopération Culturelle et Technique. Congo. Pp. 338- Systematics. A phylogenetic Approach. Sinauer Associates, Inc. 403. Sunderland, U.S.A. pp. 84-88 Adjanohoun JE, Aboubakar N, Dramane K, Ebot ME, Ekpere JA., Karou D, Dicko MH, Sanon S, Simpore J, Traore AS (2000). Enow-Orock EJ, Focho D, Gbile Z O, Kamanyi A, Kamsukom J, Antimalarial activity of Sida acuta Burm.f (Malvaceae) and Keita A, Mbenkum, Mbi CN, Mbiele AL, Mbome LL, Mubiru NK, Pterocarpus erinaceous Poir (Fabaceae). J. Ethnopharmacol. 73 (1- Nancy WL, Nkong Meneck B, Satabie B, Sofowora A., Tamze V, 2): 233-241.

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Megne BC (1998). Contribution à l’Etude des Plantes médicinales du Olorode O. (1984). Taxonomy of West African Flowering Plants. Cameroun. Inventaire de quelques plantes médicinales utilisées dans Longman. London. pp.1-158. le traitement des MST dans la région de Dschang. Mémoire de Sofowora A (1993). Medicinal Plants and traditional medicines in Maîtrise en Botanique. Université de Dschang. pp. 1-45. Africa.2nd Edition. Karthala Ibadan Nigeria pp. 268-289 MINEF. Annual report of Activities carried out by the Divisional Section Statistical Data 2006. Approved Ndop Council Budget. p. 1 for Forestry, 1999, Ngoketunjia. Ministry of Environment and Trease GE, Evans WC 1(989). Pharmacognosy.11th Edition. Brailliar Forestry. pp. 2-4 Tindel Can. Macmillian Publishers. pp. 124-127. Nkouandou I (2005). Divisional Delegation of Forestry and Wildlife for Ngoketunjia.Annual Report.pp 2-7. Okoegwale EE, Omefezi JU (2001). Some herbal preparations among the people of Isoko Clan of Delta State, Nigeria. J. Appl. Sci. 4: 2350- 2371.